been playing single player on and off for quite a while, trying to get as far through hell as i can with a pure hardcore in /players 8. but alas the benefits of trading, teamwork, ladder content, and especially the endgame encounters made me buy new CD Keys (lost my own ones Long ago).

haven't been able to get into US-East for the last couple days but i'm hoping to start up in either East or West hardcore ladder -- just wanted to check, do people actually play in them? is one preferable?

also if anyone feels to urge to give me a hand rushing a softcore character past baal so i can actually create a hardcore one, i'd appreciate it.